Filter device for a suction-cleaning appliance

Abstract

The invention relates to a filter device for a suction-cleaning appliance, comprising a carrier frame (30) and at least one filter element (31), wherein the carrier frame (30) has a wall which delimits a cavity at least in one direction, and also has at least one side opening, wherein the at least one filter element (31) is arranged on the carrier frame (30) in such a way that the filter element (31) covers the at least one side opening of the carrier frame (30), and wherein at least one outlet opening is provided on the wall of the carrier frame (30) such that a suction flow can be conducted into the cavity via the filter element (31) and out of the cavity via the outlet opening. The invention also relates to a suction-cleaning appliance having a filter device.

Description

[0001] P 62028 WO 12 November 2024

[0002] - 1 - KD filter unit for a vacuum cleaner

[0003] SCOPE OF APPLICATION AND STATE OF THE ART

[0004] The invention relates to a filter device for a vacuum cleaner. The invention further relates to a vacuum cleaner with a filter device.

[0005] In vacuum cleaners, also known as dust extraction devices, it is generally known to provide a filter device between a suction unit with a motor for generating a suction flow and a dirt collection chamber, whereby the filter device is flowed through by the generated suction flow during operation.

[0006] From EP 1 133 948 A1, a suction device with a filter system comprising two filter devices is known, wherein the two filter devices are arranged laterally next to a motor of a suction unit. The filter devices each comprise a rectangular support frame made of plastic with an adhesive filter material, wherein a suction flow is guided through the support frame.

[0007] TASK AND SOLUTION

[0008] The object of the invention is to create an improved filter device for a suction device and a suction device with a filter device.

[0009] According to a first aspect, a filter device for a suction device is created comprising a support frame and at least one filter element, wherein the support frame has a circumferential or interrupted wall defining a cavity at one circumference and at least one side opening, wherein the at least one filter element is arranged on the support frame such that the filter element covers the at least one side opening of the support frame, wherein at least one outlet opening is provided on the wall of the support frame so that a suction flow can be directed through the filter element into the cavity and through the outlet opening out of the cavity.

[0010] The terms "a", "an", "a", etc. are used in connection with the application only as indefinite articles and not as counters. In particular, more than one filter device may be provided at the side opening. The support frame may also have more than one outlet opening on its wall. P 62028 - 2 -

[0011] The terms "first", "second", ... are used solely to distinguish between components and do not indicate any order.

[0012] Unlike a filter device known, for example, from EP 1 133 948 A1, the suction flow through the filter device is not directed from a first side opening of the support frame to an opposite second side opening, but rather from one side opening to an outlet opening located on the wall of the support frame. This creates improved possibilities for arranging the filter device in a suction unit.

[0013] The outlet opening can be designed according to the application so that a suction flow can be directed through it. In some configurations, the outlet opening is designed as a single opening in the wall or as multiple openings in the wall. In other configurations, the outlet opening is created by a porous section of the wall.

[0014] The support frame is available in cuboid, cylindrical, frustoconical and / or conical configurations, wherein the side opening or several side openings are provided on a lateral surface of the support frame, and the wall with the outlet opening is arranged at an axial end of the support frame.

[0015] In various configurations, the support frame has at least one circumferential wall with at least one side opening. The circumferential wall defines the side opening. A basic form of the support frame can be designed to suit the specific application.

[0016] In particular, the support frame has a rectangular, circular and / or oval basic shape in its various configurations.

[0017] In some embodiments, the support frame has a circumferential wall and a rear wall that is manufactured in one piece with or connected to the circumferential wall, wherein a second side opening opposite the first side opening is hermetically sealed by the rear wall, so that a suction flow enters the cavity exclusively via the first side opening.

[0018] In certain embodiments, the support frame has a circumferential wall and two opposing side openings, wherein two filter elements are provided, the filter elements being arranged on the support frame such that each filter element covers one side opening of the support frame, so that suction flows pass through the filter elements into the support frame and through the outlet opening from the P 62028 - 3 -

[0019] The support frames are conductive. The two filter elements, through which the flow passes simultaneously during use of the filter device, create a larger filter area for the suction flow passing through the filter element, compared to a support frame through which the flow passes from side opening to side opening, while maintaining at least an essentially unchanged size of the support frame.

[0020] In certain embodiments, the filter element(s) are designed as a flat pleated filter. In these embodiments, the flat pleats of the flat pleated filter are exposed at least on one side of the filter assembly facing a travel and / or contact surface of the vacuum cleaner in a typical operating orientation. In other words, the flat pleats of the flat pleated filter are not covered by the support frame or other elements on at least one side facing a travel and / or contact surface of the vacuum cleaner in a typical operating orientation. This allows the flat pleats to be positioned directly above a dirt collection chamber or a channel leading to such a chamber. Any debris that falls from the flat pleated filter during use and / or cleaning thus enters the dirt collection chamber.

[0021] In certain configurations, the flat pleats of the filter assembly are oriented at least substantially perpendicular to the travel or contact surface of the suction device in a typical operating orientation. A perpendicular orientation of the flat pleats to the travel or contact surface is defined as an orientation in which the fold lines forming the flat pleats are oriented perpendicular to the travel or contact surface. Adhering material can thus fall between the flat pleats under the influence of gravity; in particular, if the end of the flat pleated filter is exposed, the material can fall into a dirt collection chamber located directly below the flat pleated filter or into a channel leading to it.

[0022] In certain embodiments, the falling of adhering material from the filter element into the dirt collection container is undesirable, particularly when the vacuum cleaner is used in a manner where the suction of hazardous materials is to be expected. In these embodiments, the flat pleated filter can be aligned parallel to the travel or contact surface of the vacuum cleaner. Alternatively or additionally, in some embodiments, a protective plate covering at least one filter element is arranged on the side of the filter assembly facing the travel and / or contact surface of the vacuum cleaner in a typical operating orientation. In some embodiments, the protective plate is manufactured as a single piece with the support frame. In other embodiments, see P 62028 - 4 -

[0023] The protective plate is connected to the support frame. The protective plate prevents or at least reduces the amount of material being sucked up from falling into the dirt collection container, as well as from falling out when the filter unit is removed from the vacuum cleaner.

[0024] In certain embodiments, the outlet opening is located on the wall of the filter assembly on a side facing away from the travel or contact surface when the filter assembly is in its operating orientation. Thus, in these embodiments, suction air passing through the filter assembly flows upwards out of the filter assembly during operation.

[0025] In certain embodiments, the support frame is provided to have a base shape that is at least substantially rectangular, comprising four frame elements forming the walls: an outlet frame element with the outlet opening, a lower frame element opposite the outlet frame element, and two lateral frame elements, in particular extending between the outlet frame element and the lower frame element. The term "lower" is used here merely for descriptive purposes, and embodiments are conceivable in which a lower frame element is positioned above an outlet frame element during use. In some embodiments, the lower frame element is positioned above an outlet frame element in a user orientation and, in the user orientation of the filter device, faces the travel or contact surface of the suction device.

[0026] In certain embodiments, a guide groove extending perpendicularly to the outlet frame element is provided on at least one lateral frame element, preferably on both lateral frame elements. The guide grooves on the two lateral frame elements are designed differently in some embodiments, so that they can be used as a code for arranging the filter assembly in the suction device with a defined orientation. In other embodiments, the guide grooves are identical, allowing the filter assembly to be arranged in the suction device with two orientations offset by 180°.

[0027] In certain embodiments, at least one lateral frame element, preferably both lateral frame elements, is / are designed such that the lateral frame element supports the filter element. In certain embodiments, the two filter elements are each supported on two opposite sides by the lateral frame elements. In certain embodiments, the filter elements are inserted into the support frame so that free ends of the filter elements, in particular free ends of filter elements designed as flat pleated filters, are connected to P 62028 - 5 -

[0028] The side opening of the support frame should be flush with the side frame elements.

[0029] In some designs, the filter unit is designed as a filter cassette that can be removed from the vacuum cleaner, in particular without tools. This allows the filter unit to be replaced as needed during the vacuum cleaner's service life by an operator without requiring special knowledge of the vacuum cleaner.

[0030] However, particularly when the filter device is used in an environment where hazardous materials are to be expected, precautions have been taken in its design so that replacement is only possible by qualified personnel.

[0031] For easy handling of the filter cassette, at least one, preferably two, handle tabs projecting transversely, in particular vertically, from the side of the support frame are provided on a side of the support frame facing away from the filter elements in certain designs.

[0032] According to a second aspect, a support plate is provided on one side of the filter device, in particular on a side of the filter device facing away from the travel or contact surface in the orientation of use of the filter device, which in embodiments also has the outlet opening of the support frame, wherein the filter device can be supported in use with the support plate on a support surface of the suction device which defines a filter receptacle for the filter device.

[0033] In certain embodiments, the support plate exhibits elastic properties, at least in some areas, and / or has an elastic seal, particularly a circumferential seal, on its underside facing the filter elements. In particular, in certain embodiments, the support plate is made entirely of an elastomer. In certain embodiments, the support plate and / or the seal serve to seal the filter assembly against a filter housing of the suction device that accommodates the filter assembly. In certain embodiments, the elastic properties of the support plate and / or the seal arranged thereon allow for tolerance compensation when the filter assembly is inserted into the suction device.If cleaning of the filter assembly is provided by applying movement, in particular by means of a so-called vibrator, the elastic properties of the support plate and / or the seal arranged thereon serve, in certain configurations, as an elastic mounting which allows movement of the filter element relative to the suction device for cleaning, in particular while maintaining a seal to the suction device. Restoring forces of the support plate and / or the seal arranged thereon serve, in certain configurations, to ensure the P 62028 - 6 -.

[0034] To force the filter assembly into a defined position. In some embodiments, the support plate and / or the seal attached to it also serves to actuate a switch on the suction device, described below, for filter detection. For this purpose, the support plate has laterally projecting nubs in some embodiments, which interact with a switch provided on the suction device.

[0035] In certain embodiments, the support plate projects transversely, and in particular vertically, from the filter elements and / or the support frame to the insertion direction of the filter assembly in a filter receptacle of the suction device. When the filter assembly is inserted into the filter receptacle, the support plate thus rests against a bearing surface that defines the filter receptacle, while the support frame with the filter elements is inserted into the filter receptacle.

[0036] In various configurations, the support plate is oval or rectangular with rounded corners. This design is advantageous for both aesthetic and technical reasons.

[0037] In some embodiments, a suction device for the filter assembly includes a filter cleaning device. This filter cleaning device comprises a magnet, in particular an electromagnet, which can be controlled to apply a force to vibrate the filter assembly for cleaning. To enable interaction with the magnet, the support frame is, in one embodiment, made entirely of a magnetizable material. In other embodiments, the support frame is made of a non-magnetizable material, for example, a non-magnetizable plastic. In some embodiments, a metal core and / or another element made of a magnetizable material is provided on the filter assembly, particularly on the support frame.Depending on the application, the arrangement of the metal core and / or the element made of a magnetizable material on the support frame, as well as the corresponding positioning of the magnet on the suction device, can be suitably selected. In one embodiment, the metal core and / or the element made of a magnetizable material is arranged on a frame element located at the top in a user orientation of the filter device. In other embodiments, at least one, preferably two, stops are provided on a side of the support frame containing the metal core and / or the element made of a magnetizable material, particularly on a frame element located at the top. These stops project transversely, and in particular vertically, from the side of the support frame and limit movement of the filter device. The stop(s) serve to prevent movement of the filter device towards an electromagnet of the filter cleaning device during P 62028 - 7 -.

[0038] to limit the cleaning process. This reliably prevents a possible collision between the metal core and the electromagnet, which could cause sparks.

[0039] In certain embodiments, the support frame has at least one support rib at each of the at least one side opening, in particular at both side openings, with an inner end of the filter element being supported on the support rib.

[0040] The support rib is designed, in particular, as a slat arranged with one flat side parallel to the side opening. In some embodiments, several support ribs designed as slats are provided at both side openings. In some embodiments, the support ribs at the two side openings are arranged parallel to each other.

[0041] In certain embodiments, the support frame has at least one stiffening rib within the cavity. The stiffening rib divides a flow chamber of the support frame. In some embodiments, the stiffening rib is arranged perpendicular to a side of the support frame containing the outlet opening and is shorter than the extension of the support frame in that direction. Alternatively or additionally, a stiffening rib is provided that is inclined, at least partially, relative to a direction perpendicular to a side of the support frame containing the outlet opening. In some embodiments, the support frame is manufactured in two parts, with the two parts of the support frame being connected to each other at the stiffening rib, in particular by a material bond, for example, by welding and / or bonding.

[0042] According to a third aspect, a suction device is created comprising a filter unit with a support frame having an outlet opening on its wall. In some embodiments, the suction device includes two filter units.

[0043] The use of two or more filter devices makes it possible to temporarily stop the suction flow through one filter element for cleaning of that filter element, while a suction process continues through the other filter element or filter elements.

[0044] The filter unit is arranged in the suction device in such a way that at least one side opening of the support frame is arranged transversely, in particular perpendicularly, to a travel and / or contact surface of the suction device. The arrangement of the filter element, such that open side surfaces of the support frame are arranged transversely, in particular perpendicularly, P 62028 - 8 -

[0045] The arrangement of the travel or contact surface allows for optimal use of the installation space for the arrangement of the filter device in the suction unit.

[0046] In some embodiments, the filter device is designed as a filter cassette, with the suction device having a filter receptacle into which the filter device can be removed, in particular removed without tools.

[0047] The filter holder is designed in such a way that the filter device can be inserted into the filter holder in a direction perpendicular to the installation and / or travel direction of the suction device.

[0048] In certain embodiments, the vacuum cleaner is equipped with a detection device designed to detect whether a filter is inserted into the filter housing. This detection device ensures that the vacuum cleaner operates only with a filter installed and prevents operation without one. This prevents dust from being drawn into the suction airflow towards the motor of the vacuum unit and / or released into the environment via exhaust air due to the absence of a filter.

[0049] In some embodiments, the detection device includes a switch, which, in an operating state of the suction device, can be actuated by an inserted filter assembly. In other embodiments, the filter assembly includes a support plate with at least partially elastic properties and / or an elastic seal by which the filter assembly is supported. In other embodiments, the support plate and / or a seal arranged thereon serve to actuate the switch in an operating state of the suction device.

[0050] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0051] Further advantages and aspects of the invention will become apparent from the claims and from the description of exemplary embodiments of the invention, which are explained below with reference to the schematic figures. These show:

[0052] Fig. 1 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a suction device with two filter devices designed as filter cassettes;

[0053] Fig. 2 shows a sectional view of the suction device according to Fig. 1; P 62028 - 9 -

[0054] Fig. 3 shows a first perspective view of a filter device according to Fig. 1;

[0055] Fig. 4 shows a second perspective view of the filter device according to Fig. 3;

[0056] Fig. 5 shows a first sectional view of the filter device according to Fig. 3;

[0057] Fig. 6 shows a second sectional view of the filter device according to Fig. 3;

[0058] Fig. 7 shows a perspective view of a second embodiment of a suction device with two filter devices designed as filter cassettes;

[0059] Fig. 8 shows a perspective view of a filter device according to Fig. 7;

[0060] Fig. 9 shows a sectional view of the filter device according to Fig. 8; and

[0061] Fig. 10 in a perspective view similar to Fig. 3 shows an alternative embodiment of a filter device.

[0062] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXECUTION EXAMPLES

[0063] Figures 1 to 10 show embodiments of suction devices 1 and / or filter devices 3. Uniform reference numerals are used in the figures for identical or similar components or elements.

[0064] Figs. 1 and 2 schematically show an embodiment of a suction device 1 with two filter devices 3, each designed as a filter cassette, inserted in the suction device 1 in a perspective view and a sectional view, respectively.

[0065] The illustrated suction device 1 comprises a housing 2 with several wheels 13 arranged on it and a bracket receptacle 20 for a push bar (not shown in Figs. 1 and 2) for moving the suction device 1 along a traversing or contact surface 10 shown schematically in Fig. 2.

[0066] The illustrated housing 2 is multi-part and comprises a first housing part 21 with a dirt collection chamber 210 (see Fig. 2), a second housing part 22 with a connection 220 (see Fig. 1) for a suction hose (not shown), and a third housing part 23. The three housing parts 21, 22, 23 together form a basic body of the housing 2. P 62028 - 10 -

[0067] The division of the basic body into three parts is merely an example; in other designs, a different division or a one-piece design of the basic body is used.

[0068] In the illustrated embodiment, a suction unit 24 (concealed in Fig. 1) and at least one, and in the illustrated embodiment two, filter devices 3 are arranged in the second housing part 22. The second housing part 22 has two filter receptacles 222, into each of which a filter device 3 can be inserted. In the illustrated embodiment, the filter devices are each designed as filter cartridges and are replaceably inserted in the filter receptacles 222.

[0069] In the illustrated embodiment, the third housing part 23 is pivotable relative to the second housing part 22. In the state shown in Fig. 1, the housing part 23 is pivoted so that access to the filter devices 3 is possible, in particular for replacing the filter devices 3. For use, the third housing part 23 is pivoted towards the second housing part 22 into the operating state shown in Fig. 2.

[0070] The vacuum cleaner 1 is equipped with a detection device that can determine whether the third housing part 23 has pivoted into its operating position. In the illustrated embodiment, the detection device also serves to detect whether both filter units 3 are present. For this purpose, the detection device in the illustrated embodiment has a switch 4, shown schematically in Fig. 2. If both filter units 3 are installed, the switch 4 is actuated when the third housing part 23 pivots into its operating position. After actuating the switch 4, the vacuum cleaner 1 can be put into operation. If one or both filter units 3 are missing, the switch 4 is not actuated in the illustrated embodiment. Even after pivoting the third housing part 23 into its operating position as shown in Fig. 2, the vacuum cleaner cannot be put into operation.

[0071] In the illustrated embodiment, two filter cleaning devices 230 are provided in the third housing part 23. The third housing part 23 is therefore also referred to as the filter head of the housing 2.

[0072] In the embodiment shown in Figures 1 and 2, the filter cleaning devices 230 are designed as so-called vibrators, also referred to as vibration devices. The filter cleaning devices 230 are configured to operate at P 62028 - 11 -

[0073] To remove a large amount of dirt from the filter devices 3 by shaking, i.e., by applying vibrations, so that the full suction power of the vacuum cleaner is restored. In the illustrated embodiment, dirt adhering to the filter devices 3 can fall into the dirt collection container 210 during shaking.

[0074] Details of the filter devices 3 shown in Figures 1 and 2 are described below with reference to Figures 3 to 6. Figures 3 and 4 show two perspective views of the filter device 3, and Figures 5 and 6 show two sectional views of the filter device 3.

[0075] The filter device 3 shown in Figs. 1 to 6 comprises a support frame 30, two filter elements 31 inserted into the support frame 30, a support plate 32 and a metal core 33 visible in the sectional views according to Figs. 5 and 6.

[0076] The support frame 30 comprises a wall which delimits a cavity 308 on one side. The support frame 30 has two side openings 309 to the cavity 308, each side opening being covered by a filter element 31.

[0077] The filter elements 31 are arranged at the opposite side openings 309 of the support frame 30 such that the flowable cavity 308 remains between the filter elements 31.

[0078] An outlet opening 301 is provided on the wall of the support frame 30, so that a suction flow, as schematically shown by arrows in Fig. 5, can be directed through the filter elements 31 into the cavity 308 and filtered out of the cavity 308 via the outlet opening.

[0079] The illustrated filter elements 31 are designed as flat pleated filters.

[0080] As can best be seen in Figs. 5 and 6, the wall of the illustrated support frame 30 has a basic shape that is at least substantially rectangular with four frame elements.

[0081] A first frame element of the support frame 30 is designed as an outlet frame element 300 and has an outlet opening. In the illustrated embodiment, an outlet opening 301 designed as a slot is provided on the outlet frame element 300. P 62028 - 12 -

[0082] The illustrated support frame 30 further has a lower frame element 302 arranged parallel to the outlet frame element 300 and opposite the outlet frame element 300, and two lateral frame elements 304 extending between the outlet frame element 300 and the lower frame element 302.

[0083] As described in connection with Figures 1 and 2, the suction device 1 shown in Figures 1 and 2 has a filter cleaning device 230 (see Figure 2) with a magnet, in particular an electromagnet, which can be controlled to apply a force for vibrating the filter device 3 for cleaning. To enable interaction with the magnet of the filter cleaning device 230, the filter device 3, as shown in Figures 1 to 6, has a metal core 33. In the illustrated embodiment, the metal core 33 is arranged on the outlet frame element 300 and interacts with the filter cleaning device 230, which, in the operating orientation shown in Figure 2, is arranged above the filter device 3.

[0084] In the illustrated embodiment, two stops 303 projecting perpendicularly from the outlet frame element 300 are provided on the outlet frame element 300. The stops serve to limit the movement of the filter assembly 3 towards an electromagnet of the filter cleaning device 230 during a cleaning process. This prevents the metal core 33 and the electromagnet of the filter cleaning device 230 from colliding during cleaning operation.

[0085] In the illustrated embodiment, the stops 303 are provided in the area of ​​the outlet opening 301 and thus also serve as handle tabs, whereby the fingers of an operator can be inserted into the outlet opening 301 to grasp the filter device 3 on the stops 303 which function as handle tabs.

[0086] The stops 303 and a holder for the metal core 33 divide the outlet opening 301 into different sections, through which a suction flow from the cavity 308 can be directed simultaneously.

[0087] The filter elements 31 are inserted into the support frame 30, so that the filter elements 31 cover the side openings 309. The flat pleats of the filter elements 31, which are designed as flat pleated filters, extend essentially perpendicular to the outlet frame element 300, i.e.

[0088] The fold lines for forming the flat folds are aligned perpendicular to the outlet frame element 300. P 62028 - 13 -

[0089] In the illustrated embodiment, the side frame elements 304 and the outlet frame element 300 each project from the side openings 309. The outlet frame element 300 also projects from the filter elements 31 and covers the sides of the filter elements 31 facing the outlet frame element 300. The side frame elements 304 are essentially flush with the filter elements 30. The filter elements 31 are each supported by the outlet frame element 300 and the side frame elements 304. In the embodiment shown in Figures 1 to 6, the lower frame element 302 projects from the side opening 308 only with a section serving as a support strip, such that an edge of the filter elements 31 resting against the support strip is supported. Thus, one end of the filter elements 31 facing away from the outlet frame element 300 is essentially free.

[0090] In the illustrated embodiment, the support frame also has several support ribs 306 at each of the side openings 309, with the inner ends of the filter elements being supported on the support ribs 306. The illustrated support ribs 306 are designed as slats whose flat sides are arranged parallel to the side openings 309. The filter elements 31 rest against the outer flat sides of the support ribs 306.

[0091] In the illustrated embodiment, a guide groove 305 extending perpendicularly to the outlet frame element 300 is provided on each of the two lateral frame elements 304. The guide groove 305 interacts with projections on the suction device 1 (not visible in the figures) to position the filter assembly 3 within the suction device 1.

[0092] As shown in Fig. 6, the support frame 30 in the illustrated embodiment has several, namely four, stiffening ribs 307.

[0093] In the illustrated embodiment, two of the stiffening ribs 307 extend parallel to the lateral frame elements 304 and perpendicular to the outlet frame element 300. In the illustrated embodiment, these stiffening ribs 307 extend from the lower frame element 302, and these perpendicular stiffening ribs 307 are shorter than the lateral frame elements 304.

[0094] In the illustrated embodiment, two further stiffening ribs 307 are provided between the vertical stiffening ribs 307, wherein these stiffening ribs 307 are inclined section by section relative to the lateral frame elements 304 and thus relative to a direction perpendicular to the outlet frame part 300. P 62028 - 14 -

[0095] In the illustrated embodiment, the stiffening ribs 307, which are at least partially inclined, are designed as a common element with the stops 303.

[0096] A support plate 32 is attached to the outlet frame element 300. In use, the filter device 3 is supported by the support plate 32 on a bearing surface of the suction device 1, which limits the filter holder 222, as shown in Figs. 1 and 2.

[0097] The support plate 32 projects from the filter elements 31 and the support frame 30 perpendicularly to the insertion direction of the filter assembly 3 in a filter receptacle 222 of the suction device 1. When the filter assembly 3 is inserted into the filter receptacle 222, the support plate 32 thus comes to rest against the support surface of the suction device 1 that delimits the filter receptacle 222, while the support frame 30 with the filter elements 31 is inserted into the filter receptacle 222.

[0098] The support plate shown has elastic properties. In particular, the support plate 32 shown is made entirely of an elastomer. As shown in Fig. 2, in an operating state of the suction device 1, the support plate 32 is clamped between the second housing part 22 and the third housing part 23. The support plate 32 serves as a seal between the filter assembly 3 and the filter holder 222 of the suction device 1. In the illustrated embodiment, the support plate 32 allows a seal on both opposite sides of the support plate 32, i.e., a seal both towards an outlet opening of the suction device 1, upwards in Fig. 2, and downwards towards the dirt collection chamber 210 in Fig. 2.

[0099] The elastic properties of the support plate 32 also allow for tolerance compensation when inserting the filter device 3 into the suction unit 1.

[0100] Due to the elastic properties of the support plate 32, the filter elements 31 of the filter assembly 3 are also movably mounted relative to the suction device 1 for a vibration movement to clean the filter assembly 3. The support plate 32 thus acts as a hinge for the vibration movement of the support frame 30 with the filter elements 31.

[0101] As described in connection with Figures 1 and 2, the suction device 1 has a switch 4 for activating the filter devices 3. The support plate 32 is designed such that the support plate 32 is connected to the switch 4 for actuation of the switch 4.

[0102] interacts. P 62028 - 15 -

[0103] In the illustrated embodiment, the support plate 32 has laterally projecting nubs 320 for a local enlargement of a section of the support plate 32 which is held stationary on the suction device 1 during a cleaning process, in particular by means of vibration. The nubs 320 thus effect improved actuation of the switch 4 for filter detection while saving material and / or installation space compared to a design with a circumferential enlargement of the support plate 32.

[0104] As can be seen in Figures 1 and 2, in the illustrated embodiment, in one operating orientation of the filter unit 3, the outlet frame element 300 is aligned at least substantially parallel to the travel or contact surface 10 of the suction device 1, and the filter unit 3 is inserted into the suction device 1 such that the flat pleats of the filter element 31 extend vertically downwards from the outlet frame element 300. As described above, one end of the filter element 31, facing away from the outlet frame element 300, is substantially free. Adhering material can thus fall between the flat pleats under the influence of gravity. In particular, material can fall into a dirt collection chamber 210 located directly below the flat pleated filter.

[0105] Fig. 7 shows a perspective view of a second embodiment of a suction device 1 with two filter units 3 designed as filter cassettes, and Figs. 8 and 9 each show one of the filter units 3 according to Fig. 7 in a perspective view and the filter unit according to Fig. 8 in a sectional view, respectively. The suction device 1 and the filter units 3 according to Figs. 7 to 9 are similar to the designs according to Figs. 1 to 6, and for a detailed description, reference is made to the above.

[0106] In contrast to the design according to Figs. 1 to 6, the filter device 3 according to Figs. 7 to 9 does not have a metal core 33.

[0107] In certain embodiments, a support frame 30 or at least an outlet frame element 300 of the support frame 30 of the filter device 3 according to Figures 8 and 9 is made of metal. A filter device 3 designed in this way according to Figures 8 and 9 can be used in the suction device 1 according to Figures 1 and 2 and can be vibrated by the filter cleaning device 230 of the suction device 1 for cleaning the filter device 1.

[0108] In other embodiments, the suction device 1 is equipped with a filter cleaning device 230 for cleaning the filter assembly 3 according to Figures 8 and 9, which allows a so-called backwash. For cleaning, a short-term airflow is used, P 62028 - 16 -

[0109] In particular, an air pulse is directed in the reverse direction through the filter device 3. The airflow is introduced into the cavity 308 via the outlet opening 301 on the wall of the support frame 30 and is carried out of the cavity 308 via the filter elements 31 to clean the filter elements 31, as schematically illustrated by arrows in Fig. 9.

[0110] Fig. 10 shows a further embodiment of a filter device 3 in a perspective view. The filter devices 3 according to Fig. 10 are similar to the design according to Figs. 1 to 6 and for a detailed description reference is made above.

[0111] In contrast to the design shown in Figures 1 to 6, the filter assembly 3 shown in Figure 10 has two protective plates 39 on the lower frame element 302, covering the filter elements 31. The protective plates 39 are designed as separate elements and are each inserted into the support frame 30 between the filter elements and the lower frame element 302. The protective plates 39 reduce or prevent the falling of material adhering to the filter elements 31 into the dirt collection container 210 (see Figure 1) and / or prevent the material from falling when the filter assembly 3 is removed from the vacuum cleaner 1.

Claims

1. P 62028 - 17 - 2. Patent claims 1. Filter system for a vacuum cleaner 4. comprising a support frame (30) and at least one filter element (31), wherein the support frame (30) has a wall that defines a cavity at least in one direction and at least one side opening, 5. wherein the at least one filter element (31) is arranged on the support frame (30) such that the filter element (31) covers the at least one side opening of the support frame (30), 6. characterized in that at least one outlet opening is provided on the wall of the support frame (30), 7. so that a suction flow can be directed through the filter element (31) into the cavity and out of the cavity via the outlet opening.

2. Filter device according to claim 1, characterized in that 9. the support frame (30) has a circumferential wall and at least one side opening (309), 10. wherein the support frame (30) in particular has two opposing side openings, wherein two filter elements (31) are provided, wherein the filter elements (31) are arranged on the support frame (30) such that each filter element (31) covers one side opening of the support frame (30), 11.so that suction flows can be directed via the filter elements (31) into the support frame (30) and via the outlet opening out of the support frame.

3. Filter device according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that 13. that at least one filter element (31) is designed as a flat pleated filter, wherein in particular 14. the flat pleats of the flat pleated filter are exposed at least on one side of the filter assembly (3) facing a travel and / or contact surface of the suction device (1) in a usage orientation of the filter assembly (3), and / or 15. the flat folds in a usage orientation of the filter device (3) are aligned at least substantially perpendicular to the travel or contact surface of the suction device (1).

4. Filter device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that 17. on a in a service orientation of the filter device (3) of a process and / or P 62028 - 18 - 18. On the side of the filter device (3) facing the contact surface of the suction device (1), a protective plate (39) covering at least one filter element (31) is arranged.

5. Filter device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that 20. the outlet opening (301) is located on the wall on a side of the filter device (3) facing away from the travel or contact surface in the direction of use of the filter device (3).

6. Filter device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that 22. the support frame (30) has a basic shape that is at least substantially rectangular, comprising four frame elements forming the wall, an outlet frame element (300) having the outlet opening (301), a lower frame element (302) opposite the outlet frame element (300), and two lateral frame elements (304), in particular extending between the outlet frame element (300) and the lower frame element (320).

7. Filter device according to claim 6, characterized in that 24. a guide groove (305) extending in particular perpendicular to the outlet frame element (300) is provided on at least one lateral frame element (304), preferably on both lateral frame elements (304), and / or at least one lateral frame element (304), preferably both lateral frame elements (304), is designed such that the lateral frame element (304) supports the filter element (31).

8. Filter device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that 26. the filter device (3) is designed as a filter cassette which can be removed, in particular removed without tools, and inserted into the suction device (1), 27. wherein, in particular, at least one, preferably two, handle tabs projecting transversely, in particular vertically, from the side of the support frame (30) are provided on a side of the support frame (30) facing away from the filter elements (31). P 62028 - 19 - 9. Filter device according to one of the preceding claims and / or according to the preamble of claim 1, characterized in that 29. a support plate (32) is provided on one side of the filter device (3), in particular on a side of the filter device (3) facing away from the travel or contact surface in the orientation of use of the filter device (3), wherein the filter device (3) can be supported in use with the support plate (32) on a support surface of the suction device (1) which defines a filter holder for the filter device (3), 30. in particular 31. the support plate (32) has elastic properties at least in some areas, and / or 32. an elastic seal, in particular a circumferential seal, is provided on an underside of the support plate (32) facing the filter elements (30), and / or the support plate (32) projects transversely, in particular perpendicularly to an insertion direction of the filter device (30) in a filter receptacle (222) of the suction device (1) from the filter elements (31) and / or the support frame (30), and / or 33. the support plate (32) is oval-shaped or rectangular with rounded corners.

0. Filter device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that 35. a metal core (33) and / or another element made of a magnetizable material is provided on the filter device (3), in particular on the support frame (30). In particular, at least one, preferably two, stops (303) are provided on a side of the support frame (30) having the metal core (33) and / or the element made of a magnetizable material, projecting transversely, in particular vertically, from the side of the support frame (30) and limiting movement of the filter device (3).

1. Filter device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that 37. the support frame (30) has at least one support rib (306) at each of the at least one side opening, in particular at each of the two side openings, 38. wherein an inner end of the filter element is supported on the support rib (306), the support rib being designed in particular as a slat arranged with one flat side parallel to the side opening. P 62028 - 20 - 12. Filter device according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that 40. the support frame (30) in the cavity (308) has at least one stiffening rib (307), wherein in particular 41. the stiffening rib (307) is arranged perpendicular to a side of the support frame (30) having the outlet opening and is shorter than an extension of the support frame in that direction, and / or 42. the stiffening rib (307) is inclined in a direction perpendicular to a side of the support frame (30) having the outlet opening.

13. Suction device comprising a filter device according to one of claims 1 to 12, wherein in particular the filter device (3) is arranged in the suction device such that the at least one side opening of the support frame (3) is arranged transversely, in particular perpendicularly to a travel and / or contact surface of the suction device (1).

14. Suction device according to claim 13, characterized in that 45. the filter device (3) is designed as a filter cassette, wherein the suction device (1) has a filter receptacle (222) into which the filter device can be removed, in particular removed without tools.

15. Suction device according to claim 14, characterized in that 47. the filter holder (222) is designed so that the filter device (3) can be inserted into the filter holder (222) in a direction perpendicular to a setup and / or travel direction of the suction device (1).

16. Suction device according to claim 14 or 15, characterized in that 49. the suction device (1) has a detection device, wherein the detection device is configured to detect whether a filter device is inserted into the filter holder.

17. Suction device according to claim 16, characterized in that 51. the detection device comprises a switch (4) wherein the switch (4) can be actuated by an inserted filter device in a state of use of the suction device.

Images